Delhi government will impose a blanket ban on the usage and manufacturing of plastic bags in the next two months. A draft notification in this regard has been issued by the State Government. The notification says those violating the ban could face imprisonment up to five years and fine of up to one lakh rupees or both. It states that no person including shopkeepers, vendors, wholesalers, retailers and hawkers will be allowed to sell, store or use plastic carry bags for supply of any goods. However, the ban will not be applicable for containers used for packing food material, milk and bags that constitute an integral part of the packaging in which goods are sealed prior to use. The final notification in this regard will be issued next month after seeking suggestions as well as objections, if any, from all stakeholders.

AIR Correspondent reports that the Delhi Cabinet had in April this year decided to impose blanket ban, after the initial ban imposed in 2009 failed to achieve desired results.